The iconic photograph from the Vietnam War depicting a group of children fleeing a napalm attack near Trảng Bàng has long been attributed to Huynh Cong “Nick” Út. However, a recent documentary called “The Stringer” has cast doubts on this attribution, suggesting that another journalist named Nguyễn Thành Nghệ may have actually captured the image.
This revelation has prompted World Press Photo to suspend crediting Út as the photographer of the famous photograph. The film alleges that Nghệ, a freelance journalist with military photography training, was present at the scene and may have been better positioned to take the photograph.
While the Associated Press, which owns the photo, maintains that there is not enough evidence to discredit Út, World Press Photo has conducted its own investigation. They reviewed visual material and satellite imagery of the scene, concluding that Nghệ or another photographer, Huỳnh Công Phúc, may have been the actual photographer.
The decision to change the credit for the photograph lies with World Press Photo, who have acknowledged that there are gaps in the evidence that prevent definitive proof of the photographer’s identity. The AP released a detailed investigation into the photograph, but World Press Photo’s findings have prompted them to reconsider the attribution.
The director of “The Stringer,” Bob Nguyen, has praised World Press Photo’s decision, stating that it marks a step towards giving Nguyễn Thành Nghệ the recognition he deserves. This development underscores the importance of reexamining stories and ensuring that credit is given where it is due.
